Do Adults Have ADHD?
Yes! Just because you become an adult, it doesn’t mean your symptoms magically disappear.
It was previously believed that children outgrew ADHD. Now we understand that 30–60% of children diagnosed with ADHD continue to be affected into adulthood.
As adults, symptoms can often lessen as the pre-frontal cortex and executive function mature. Self-control may improve, and hyperactivity symptoms tend to lessen with age, but may still manifest as fidgeting or other small movements.
The school system is often a difficult place for children with ADHD, but once you’re free to choose a career path that suits you, and have developed positive strategies to help you overcome ADHD challenges, life may become easier and outward symptoms less apparent.
Freed from the constraints of school, ADHD may become less of an issue for some. It can be a huge relief to study in a way that suits you, explore subjects that interest you, and discover what you really love.
On the other hand, symptoms may come to the fore when your life changes and you suddenly have less structure or more challenges, such as starting university or a new job, living on your own for the first time, or becoming a parent.
Many adults realise they have ADHD when their children are diagnosed. They learn more about ADHD symptoms and recognise they have those same traits.
If you didn’t have a co-morbid learning difficulty and always managed to do well at school or university, but have never quite reached your potential, seen others less qualified than you take promotions, or feel frustrated by poor time management, procrastination, and missed deadlines – you might have adult ADHD.
Other conditions can cause ADHD-like symptoms, such as menopause, thyroid issues, and other medical or psychiatric conditions. Please refer to:
- Conditions That Mimic ADHD [https://www.adhdsupportaustralia.com.au/what-is-adhd/conditions-that-mimic-adhd/]
- Co-Morbid Conditions [https://www.adhdsupportaustralia.com.au/what-is-adhd/co-morbid-conditions/]
…to check whether any of these might relate to your situation, and consult your GP.
Getting a diagnosis as an adult is similar to a child’s process, but you will seek a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist. You will need to present with at least five symptoms from the list in What is ADHD [https://www.adhdsupportaustralia.com.au/what-is-adhd/] that were present before age 12.
How Symptoms Manifest in Adults
Trouble Concentrating and Staying Focused
- Difficulty finishing mundane tasks
- Zoning out without realising
- Easily distracted and losing track
- Problems focusing on reading or listening
- Difficulty completing even simple tasks
- Overlooking details, leading to errors
- Poor listening skills and trouble remembering conversations
Hyperfocus
- Becoming absorbed in stimulating or rewarding tasks, losing track of time
- Can be a strength if directed productively, but problematic if unmanaged
Disorganisation and Forgetfulness
- Poor organisational skills (home, desk, car cluttered)
- Procrastination
- Trouble starting or finishing projects
- Chronic lateness
- Frequently forgetting appointments or deadlines
- Losing or misplacing keys, wallet, phone, documents
- Underestimating time needed for tasks
Impulsivity
- Interrupting or talking over others
- Poor self-control
- Blurting out thoughts without thinking
- Addictive tendencies
- Acting without regard for consequences
- Socially inappropriate behaviour
Emotional Difficulties
- Sense of underachievement
- Low frustration tolerance
- Easily flustered or stressed
- Irritability or mood swings
- Lack of motivation
- Hypersensitivity to criticism
- Short temper
- Low self-esteem and insecurity
Hyperactivity or Restlessness
- Inner restlessness or agitation
- Tendency to take risks
- Getting bored easily
- Racing thoughts
- Fidgeting or trouble sitting still
- Craving excitement
- Talking excessively
- Chronic multitasking
Effects of Adult ADHD
Many adults have been labelled ‘lazy’ or ‘stupid’ due to forgetfulness or incomplete tasks, leading to negative self-image. Knowing ADHD is the cause, and not a personal weakness, can be a huge relief.
ADHD does not dictate intelligence or ability. Many people with ADHD have strengths such as creativity, passion, energy, out-of-the-box thinking, and innovation.
Unmanaged ADHD can cause:
- Emotional difficulties and co-morbid conditions (anxiety, depression, chronic stress, low self-esteem)
- Career challenges (underachievement, job loss, trouble following rules, meeting deadlines, keeping a routine)
- Financial issues (late bills, lost paperwork, impulsive spending)
- Relationship strain (conflicts over organisation, hurtful comments)
Managing Adult ADHD
Once you understand your challenges, you can adopt strategies to manage them. Outside help may not be necessary initially — you can take self-help steps such as those outlined in ADHD Treatments [https://www.adhdsupportaustralia.com.au/what-is-adhd/adhd-treatments/].
Improve Time Management
- Use time management techniques — small changes can make a big difference
Work on Social Skills
- Schedule time with friends and set reminders
- Practise active listening and avoid interrupting
Choose the Right Career
- Find a role that motivates and interests you
- Work with organised, detail-oriented colleagues
- Be open to trial and error
- Delegate tasks that play to your weaknesses
- Brain dump regularly to clear mental clutter
- Use apps and technology for organisation
- Filter and prioritise ideas
Seeking Outside Help
If symptoms still interfere with daily life, professional support may help. Adults with ADHD can benefit from:
- Behavioural psychology
- Therapy (individual or group)
- Biomedical investigations
- Support groups
- Coaching
- Educational assistance
- Medication
Family or partner involvement can also be beneficial.
Futher Reading
If you think you’re an adult with ADHD, read more here:
ADHD Directory
Use the ADHD Directory to find a practitioner.
If you live near Sydney’s Northern Beaches, attend one of our monthly ADHD speaker evenings.
More information and bookings: Events